Highlights include:
- Nature Mapping: Since June 2023, three photo-trapping cameras (the basis for ITASA’s program for monitoring ecological integrity) have been in operation across Tabacon’s 900 acres of rainforest. 535 sightings of 23 species show the most common to be Pecari Tajacu (mammal) and Crax Rubra peacock (bird). This project is intended to be the first presented to achieve an Ecological Blue Flag award in 2024.
- Blue Gold: Tabacón is the custodian of both natural volcanic and mineral springs. Thanks to the installation of flowmeters in 2022, last year saw a reduction in water consumption across the resort of 26.5%. All water used on-property is naturally heated and direct from source before being responsibly returned to the environment.
- Energy Consumption: Tabacón operates on 75% renewable power (hydroelectric and solar). In November, new laundry equipment with greater capacity was introduced saving 12,000L of water per month.
- Waste Reduction: This year to avoid using plastics, Tabacón has used over 128,800 reusable or compostable items including combs, shaving kits, bottles and cups. More than 1 Tonne of plastic waste from cleaning products was returned to suppliers.
- Tourism Professionals of the Future: 2023 saw Tabacón resume its role as a ‘school hotel’ for sustainably-guided best practice. This included an alliance with the National Learning Institution (INA) offering three Dual Education internship opportunities and conducting student visits from universities from Costa Rica and the USA. Construction began on a new production kitchen which, when completed, will act as a culinary research and innovation centre training young people from the community.
- Ruta Eléctrica La Fortuna: The first fast charging electric station was installed at Tabacón and is now available for use by both guests and visitors to the La Fortuna de San Carlos area. Tabacon has been the pioneer and coordinator of this regional program to expand Costa Rica’s EV charging network.
- Programa de Reconocimientos a la Excelencia Educativa: A recognition program was launched by Tabacón for teachers and students of the 26 educational centres in La Fortuna de San Carlos in collaboration with the Ministry of Education. The inaugural awards ceremony was held in February 2024. As part of its wider school outreach program Tabacón provided 280 packages of school supplies to families in the community and over the past two years has contributed to the construction of five classrooms at the Liceo de Sonafluca. This school currently has 500 students enrolled, but a capacity for 200, meaning they receive lessons on a fortnightly rotation. The new classrooms will be opened in 2024.
- Hyper-local Supply Chain: Tabacón continues to prioritise working with trusted local partners including Biosfera Skincare and local construction company Masaba. Masaba’s owner, Freddy, says: “I began to take the first steps to have my own business… they called me from Tabacón to give me the opportunity to work on a pedestrian bridge. At that time they gave me their trust and 10 years later I continue to be an ally for the hotel’s construction projects. For me, Tabacón is my second home. I feel very happy to work with this company. Management and leadership know my work and gave me the opportunity from day one”.
General Manager Andrey Gomez comments: “Tabacón is committed deeply to regenerative tourism. As our fourth impact report, these vital insights add another layer of understanding to our overall Strategic Sustainability Plan year over year, guiding how we can evolve existing programs and shape the introduction of new ones for the benefit of our entire ecosystem. This year, we’ve introduced a number of collaborations focused on positive regeneration. Our nature mapping project to manage the flora, fauna and natural resources of our 900-acre rainforest, and working with local partners to provide essential infrastructure and inspire and motivate our local communities. All are designed to establish an intrinsic harmony and balance between tourism and our beloved destination. We’ll continue to build on these initiatives in 2024, led by our dedicated sustainability team and with the proactive support of our Tabacón family and partners.”
